Atypical ventricular septal defect

A case of a congenital cardiac malformation in form of a single ventricular septal defect is reported and histopathologic findings are presented. The possible origin with regard to its untypical localisation is discussed.     

Forensic medicine and morphologic aspects of fatal amniotic fluid aspiration

The massive aspiration of amniotic fluid as one cause of a fatal postpartal asphyxia will be demonstrated under the aspect of preliminary criminal law proceedings against physicians because of medical negligence. The pathomorphologically established diagnosis of a fatal aspiration of amniotic fluid supposes extensive and systematic quantitative histological examination of both lungs. The technique of histological cross sections through the entire lung combined with morphometry is a suitable method to exactly record the alterations of bronchi and lung parenchyma by aspiration of amniotic fluid and their complications, such as interstitial emphysema.     

A short note on the identification of mitragynine

The leaves of Mitragyna speciosa are used as a substitute for opium. Criminal penalties for possession of mitragynine in this country are assigned for possession of defined quantities of mitragynine and its identification as Mitragyna speciosa by thin-layer chromatography and gas chromatography.     

A special case of bolus fatality

The case of a 58-year-old man is reported, who had been hospitalized for almost 30 years for paranoid-hallucinatory schizophrenia. He was found unconscious in the clinic with a scarcely perceptible pulse and irregular breathing. Attempts at resuscitation were not successful. Looking at the corpse, no findings of particular value were noted. At the court-ordered autopsy, a mouse was found in the oral cavity; the head of the mouse was stuck in the laryngeal inlet. The cause of death was ascribed to asphyxia by alimentary bolus; the cause of death was apparently the effect of choking combined with a reflex action. In the large colon (megacolon) many metal objects were found. On the basis of the evidence, it was assumed that the mouse was already dead when the patient choked on it. A disturbance in the ability to swallow as a result of alcohol or medication was ruled out, as were neurological diseases.     

Intrapleural golf ball size loose body. An incidental finding at autopsy

An intrapleural free floating golf ball size body was an incidental finding at autopsy. The pathogenesis and clinical significance of this lesion are discussed.